Lords of Vice—Book 5
By Alexandra Hawkins
Publisher: St. Martin ’s Press
Release
Date: July 31, 2012
As one of London ’s
infamous Lords of Vice, Simon Jefferes, Marquess of Sainthill, has never had a
problem with women. He often keeps a mistress, but never for too long. One
evening, he spies the proprietress of the newest high-class brothel, the Golden
Pearl. The mysterious Madame Venna intrigues him with her sexy voice and masked
face. Saint tries to coax her into his bed, but she eludes him. Naturally,
Saint wants what he can’t have. After much persistence, he is finally granted a single glorious night
with her...only to be promptly dismissed by her bodyguards the next morning. This,
of course, doesn’t sit well with Saint. He asks to speak with her and is denied
repeatedly. He is angry and hurt as he is completely infatuated with the
courtesan. Because of this incident, he avoids the Golden Pearl and Madame
Venna for awhile, but never forgets their one night together. Years later,
Saint comes to Madame Venna to ask for her help and all the old feelings
resurface.
Catherine Deverall, known to most as Madame Venna, must keep
her true identity a secret in order to protect herself. Years ago, she fled an
abusive situation and came to London
seeking shelter. She found it in the form of Mrs. Sweete, a brothel madam who
took Catherine under her wing and taught her how to survive. Catherine is the
bastard daughter of an earl and a married lady. After her birth, she was sold
to a couple whose son later took advantage of Catherine. Now she lives two
separate lives—that of the fancy, elaborate Madame Venna and also the quiet,
reserved Catherine. Trouble starts when Saint encounters both her personas
causing it to become difficult for Catherine to keep them separate. When several
people from her past show up, Saint vows to do whatever it takes to protect
her.
All Afternoon with a
Scandalous Marquess is a solid addition to the Lords of Vice series by
Alexandra Hawkins. This one isn’t my favorite of the series, but that may be
because I’m not a big fan of the “secret identity” theme in books, especially when it goes on a little too long for my taste. And I know
that certain themes that may not be one person’s cup of tea, others will love. J Having said that, I did adore Saint and Catherine.
They were engaging characters and I especially enjoyed the scenes between them
when Catherine was able to be herself, sans mask. Those parts were sweet and
charming and allowed each of them and the reader to get to know their true nature.
I felt for Catherine and all she had been through and was happy to see her get a happy ending with a man who loves her.
I love this series and its decadent heroes and am very much
looking forward to the last two books in the series. Next up is Hunter, who has
been betrothed since he was a boy, and then it’s the enigmatic Frost’s turn. I
can’t wait to find out what kind of woman Ms. Hawkins pens to melt his black
heart! Until then, fans of the series will enjoy this offering, especially if
you fancy the “secret identity” premise.
Ack, I think I missed one! -----> Dianna on a mad search for book 4 AND 5
ReplyDeleteI love the series as well and I can't believe I missed 4, must have been napping when it came out.
So glad you love this series, too, Dianna! Book 4 is Sunrise with a Notorious Lord and is Vane's story. It came out in January. I hope you enjoy Saint's story!
DeleteOh my! What an amazing way to spend the day! The cover is so lovely and almost tells a story by just looking at it. Sigh. I'm looking forward to reading "All Afternoon with a Scandalous Marquess" and "carry on" with the Lords of Vice.
ReplyDeleteIt is a beautiful cover, isn't it, Connie?! I hope you enjoy spending All Afternoon with a Scandalous Marquess. ;-)
DeleteI haven't read her yet but she's an author that I have in my "want to read" list! Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to hear she's on your list, catslady!
DeleteI've only read To Dawn With The Devil but want so badly to get the rest of the series. I love her writing!
ReplyDelete*Till .....been a loooong day, LOL!
DeleteI hear you, Leah! LOL! I hope you can catch up soon. :-)
DeleteA bunch of bad boys as heroes. I guess the badder they are, the stronger and more special a woman needed to love them. Makes for strong conflict and really good characters. Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteYou're absolutely right, librarypat! Thanks for stopping by. :)
DeleteTwo roles, one man sounds like a tight line to tiptoe across!
ReplyDeleteI've only read her book ALL NIGHT WITH A ROGUE.
Thanks for the review.
Laurie, my favorite so far is After Dark with a Scoundrel. I just love Dare!
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